Job: Chapters 4-5

Eliphaz Speaks: The Innocent Prosper:

Cheyenne Canyon | Colorado Springs, CO [Isaac, myself & Joe]

Eliphaz was one of Job's close friends came to see him. He is responding to what Job said in Chapter 3 where he laments his birth. He replies with a lot of humility and asks whether or not he will listen with patience to his words. Eliphaz reminds Job of all the things that he has done for others who have gone through trials and tribulations, how Job reminds others of God's love for them and how they must remain patient with God. Eliphaz calls Job out for being impatient and not trusting God in his trials. He reminds Job of the confidence that he had in God and that his hope should be found in Him. He encourages Job to press on in faith and integrity for the Lord because those who sow trouble reap the same.

Spirits Vision:

Eliphaz was visited by a spirit in the night who came with a voice: "Can mortal man be in the right before God?" this spirit, presumed angel from God, speaks throughout the next 32 verses [Job 4: 17-21 & Job 5: 1-27] and reveals that no man can be pure before the God of Heaven. Even the angels are charged with an error along with His servants. If they are subject to discipline, how much more would those who are earthly sinners be found in error? Surely the wisest man who walks the earth pales in comparison to those who are angels in Heaven. The foundation of the man is built on houses of clay and is easily crushed. Whom will you turn to in these dark times? Will you seek darkness or light? Only the fool sits in vexation and disregards the truth that is found in God. Man is born into trouble, ever since the fall, and it is not the earth that gives man trouble, man gives man trouble. Commit yourself to God and dwell on His holiness. He does great things that are above and beyond anything you can imagine, wonders that are undefined by human experience. He makes rainfall on the earth, He sends water to your fields, He lifts those who are low, He gives safety to the mourners. He protects against the crafty and catches the wise who are due to create evil. He saves the needy from their own tongues. Blessed is the man who God disciplines! He will bless you with the riches of life and old age and peace shall come. Hear me and know that it is good.

Richmond, VA | [Myself & Ryan]

What an incredible friendship! Picture yourself being confronted by a friend, has it ever looked like this? Ever? I can say that I am privileged to have friends like this in my life; Isaac, Ryan, and Joe. People who know what is best for me and will come in humility and love to show me the errors in my ways. This is a blessing beyond measure. It is vitally important to build friendships that are consistent with the Gospel and exude love in the toughest situations. This is something that Job has in his friends and it is critical during times like these. Thankfully, God is in control of all things and if we always seek His guidance prior to seeking to be right, things will be better. One of my favorite quotes: "Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art.... It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things which give value to survival.” - C.S. Lewis

Dear lord, it is hard for us to imagine trials and tribulations until we are knee-deep in them. We do not tend to think about pain until it arrives. During these times of strain we fall on our knees and seek your healing and praise your name, Lord, we do not deserve you. I know that I haven't always come to you daily until something bad occurs. Create in me a heart of faithfulness to you regardless of the situation. Thank you for the blessing of friendship you have given me through my closest friends. Amen.

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